23% rise in 2024 may dip – but no decline expected in 2025 Denmark, Copenhagen – 22 December 2024.   In November, China exported 548.6k cars, a 6.2% decrease month-on-month, but still reflecting a solid 4.7% year-on-year growth. Although we’ve observed some slowing in year-on-year growth in recent months, this is likely due to global car sales cooling, which naturally impacts export volumes, according to Fearnleys. Year-to-date, Chinese car exports have risen by 23%. Despite signs of freight rates easing, the

Limited availability driving rates this January – further rises expected Denmark, Copenhagen – 22 December 2024.   LPG freight rates surged this week, driven by increased activity in both the East and West. RT/C rates rose 21% week-on-week to USD 37,800/day, marking a nine-week high. According to Clarksons, the market is tightening due to limited vessel availability and a preference among charterers for larger ships, both factors driving rates higher. In the East, January fixing has begun following ADNOC’s (Abu Dhabi

Doubts remain over duration and efficiency of forthcoming U.S. sanctions Denmark, Copenhagen – 22 December 2024.   The U.S. is preparing harsher sanctions on Russia’s oil trade, according to Bloomberg. The aim is to pressure the Kremlin economically. Details are expected soon, including potential measures against shipping fleets. Questions remain, however, about the effectiveness of such sanctions, especially given China’s continued purchases of sanctioned Iranian oil, and whether a Trump-led administration would follow the same approach. Russian crude exports, excluding CPC,

Higher rates expected – driven by limited tonnage before Christmas​ Denmark, Copenhagen – 22 December 2024.   The Aframax market had a mixed performance this week. In the UKC, rates saw a slight increase as charterers focused on safer itineraries ahead of Christmas. Meanwhile, activity in the Mediterranean/Black Sea region helped stabilize the market. With the holiday season approaching and limited tonnage available, rates could strengthen further as charterers secure vessels in advance. Although Q4 rates are underperforming across the tanker